In simple terms, an SR-22 certificate, sometimes known as a certificate of financial responsibility, proves that you have the minimum liability auto insurance required by your state. You may be required to get an SR-22 by a court order for specific reasons including failing to have or maintain the minimum coverage you’re required to have. If you need to get an SR-22 or have questions about how to obtain this certificate, here is a brief guide that may help you understand more about this process.
Even if you’re a seasoned driver, you may have never heard of SR-22 insurance or what purpose it serves. If you need to get an SR-22 or have questions about how to obtain this certificate, here is a brief guide that may help you understand more about this process.
Who must file an SR-22?
Not everyone will need to file an SR-22. It is typically required for individuals who have been involved in serious driving violations, like the following:
- Major convictions like DUI or reckless driving
- Conviction for driving without having insurance
- Failure to pay damages for an at-fault accident
- Underage drinking conviction
- Causing a car accident
- An accumulation of multiple violations in a certain period of time. Those who have had their licenses suspended or revoked may be ordered to file an SR-22.
You will then need to contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or its equivalent to file an SR-22 form to prove that you have the necessary auto insurance coverage.
How does SR-22 insurance work?
If you’ve been convicted of a moving violation, a court may require you to get an SR-22. If you’re mandated to get an SR-22, you can contact your auto insurance company to help you file for one. Not all auto insurance companies can help you obtain this certificate, so you may have to shop around before finding a provider that can assist you.
Drivers who’ve been ordered to get an SR-22 typically need to maintain the certificate for three years, though this duration can vary by state and offense. Any lapse in the minimum liability coverage during the designated period may result in further penalties including license suspension or additional fees.
How much does SR-22 insurance cost?
The cost of filing an SR-22 is usually around $25 but may depend on the insurance provider you’re working with or the state you live in. Though the filing cost may not seem like a lot, you may experience a financial escalation on your insurance premium. High-risk drivers and those with driving offenses may experience higher rates due to the violations that necessitate getting an SR-22.
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What happens if you don’t file an SR-22?
If you’re required to file an SR-22 but fail to obtain one, you may face serious consequences. These may include:
- License suspension: Without your SR-22, you may get your license privileges revoked.
- Legal penalties: You could face large fines for not maintaining your SR-22 and minimum liability coverage.
- Additional fees: You may have to deal with reinstatement fees for reobtaining your license as well as higher auto insurance costs.
SR-22 vs. FR-44: What’s the difference?
Like an SR-22, an FR-44 also proves you are maintaining a level of financial responsibility. An FR-44, though, is specific to states like Florida and Virginia. If you’re in one of these states with alternative filing methods, you can talk to an insurance agent to help you figure out the right course of action.
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State-specific SR-22 requirements
Here are some states and the typical requirements to fulfill if you need to file for an SR-22:
California
- Filing fee: $25–$50
- Minimum liability coverage: 30/60/15 ($30,000 for bodily injury per person/$60,000 for injury for more than one person /$15,000 for property damage)
- Duration: Typically, three years
Texas
- Filing fee: $25-$50
- Minimum liability coverage: 30/60/25 ($30,000 for bodily injury per person/$60,000 for injury for more than one person /$25,000 for property damage)
- Duration: Usually two years
Arizona
- Filing fee: $25-$50
- Minimum liability coverage: 25/50/15 ($25,000 for bodily injury per person/$50,000 for injury for more than one person /$15,000 for property damage)
- Duration: Generally, three years
FAQs about SR-22
Is an SR-22 a type of insurance?
Though sometimes referred to as insurance, it’s actually a certificate and not a standalone insurance policy.
Do you need an SR-22 if you don’t own a car?
If a court orders you to file for an SR-22 but you don’t own a car, you may need a non-owner auto insurance policy to meet your state’s liability requirements.
Do you need an SR-22 if you move to a different state?
If you’re ordered to get an SR-22 in one state but decide to move to another, you’ll still need to file. You’ll also need to maintain your liability minimum coverage in that first state until the end of your SR-22 period. If your coverage lapses in your original state, you could have your license suspended.
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How to get SR-22 insurance
Not all insurance companies offer SR-22 filing services, so it’s important to find an agency that can help you locate a provider. At Infinity Insurance Agency, Inc. (IIA), we can help guide you through the filing process. Here are some steps that can help start your journey:
- Contact us: Talk to an agent at 1-855-478-3705 and let them know you need a certificate of financial responsibility.
- Get a quote: With IIA, you can get a free, personalized insurance quote that includes the SR-22 filing fees.
- File the SR-22: We can help you submit the SR-22 form to your state’s DMV or a relevant agency on your behalf.
How Infinity Insurance Agency, Inc. (IIA) can help
IIA can help you navigate the SR-22 filing process. Our knowledgeable staff understands specific SR-22 and car insurance requirements for states like California and Texas. We’re ready to help you stay compliant with your local laws. Contact us today and we can assist you with your coverage questions, updating your auto insurance policy, or getting a personalized insurance quote.